The City of London Corporation has approved plans for 1 Undershaft, a 74-storey skyscraper set to become London’s tallest building, matching the Shard at 310 meters. Councillors voted 16-7 in favor of the project, despite privacy concerns over increased CCTV surveillance.
Located between the Gherkin and the Leadenhall Building, the skyscraper will feature a 2,500-square-meter podium garden 42 meters above ground, a free elevated public space, and educational facilities at its highest levels. These additions aim to enhance public accessibility and cultural offerings in the City of London.
The development is expected to contribute significantly to the City’s target of 1.2 million square meters of new office space by 2040. Adjusted plans reduced the building’s footprint following backlash from stakeholders, including Lloyd’s of London, addressing earlier concerns about the loss of public space.
However, critics, including the Universities Superannuation Scheme, have voiced concerns over the project’s emphasis on heightened security and surveillance, with developers proposing additional CCTV to monitor the area and a large screen at the tower’s entrance.
The final decision will rest with London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner. If approved, the skyscraper promises to boost the capital’s economic growth and cultural appeal.
